Winter weather can make even a native Northerner-s knuckles turn white when gripping the steering wheel. Holiday travel may take you to areas where winter storms are common, or the occasional strange weather pattern may bring mayhem to your normally mild climate. Keep the following tips in mind if faced with tough winter driving conditions.

1. Stay calm at all times.

2. Keep an emergency kit in your car including jumper cables, a flashlight, gloves or mittens, blankets, snacks and water. Travel with a charged cell phone. A bag of cat litter or sand can be helpful if you are in a situation where you need some traction under your wheels.

3. Practice if you can. A flat, empty parking lot is a good place to get some experience driving in the snow if the opportunity presents itself.

4. Allow plenty of space between the vehicle in front of you and yourself. If they stop and you slam on the brakes, you may rear end the vehicle you are following or lose control and start skidding.

5. Stay home if possible. Only drive in winter weather conditions if absolutely necessary, especially if you are not an experienced driver in winter weather.Still bored? Click to continue: Winter weather to cloud weekend